Modularized light processing of body components

ABSTRACT

Method and system for illuminating a selected body component with light to encourage selected beneficial reactions of the body component as a result of such exposure and to provide phototherapy. Light is provided using a light delivery module having one or more components that fit around a body component (e.g., as an electronic bandaid), or fit within a mouth or other body cavity, for dental or mouth interior or cavity interior therapy, or are located at a particular site (such as an acupuncture terminal) on the body, where each light delivery component can be independently controlled and can be supplemented by one or more magnetic fields. The body component is exposed to light in first and second substantially nonoverlapping wavelength ranges and to light in third and fourth substantially nonoverlapping wavelength ranges, in a first time interval and in a second time interval, respectively, that are separated by a selected dark field time interval where substantially no light exposure occurs, except for ambient lighting. An integrated power supply allows operation and recharging simultaneously and/or provides power for two or more related light delivery elements at related times. Phototherapy can be provided as a replacement for, or supplement to, conventional acupuncture treatment.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to illumination of a selected body component, ora few adjacent components, using light with selected wavelength rangesand selected illumination time intervals.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Phototherapy involves generation of light by suitable light sources,such as light emitting diodes (LEDs) in the visible and infrared rangesto provide various benefits for a patient's body. The photons producedare absorbed by the body through the skin, the eyes and acupuncturepoints or meridians. Connective tissues in the body conduct the light todeeper tissues and organs. By taking advantage of optical properties ofbiological tissues, suitable wavelengths of light can be delivered to,absorbed by and used by the body to activate metabolic functions.

Treatment of a body using light irradiation requires a choice of severalimportant parameters, including wavelength range, relative distributionof the wavelengths within the range (spectrum), time interval forcontinuous exposure, time interval between two continuous exposures,time rate of energy delivered, accumulated energy density for exposures,body component(s) irradiated, and many others.

What is needed is a method and corresponding system that providesappropriate illumination for a body component and appropriate choice ofthe relevant parameters and that distinguishes between treatments fordifferent medical purposes. Preferably, the method and system shouldprovide for, and distinguish between, initial treatments and maintenancetreatments for a given medical condition and should cover a large numberof, if not all of, conditions that are believed to be treatable usingillumination.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

These needs are met by the invention, which provides application ofradiation in selected wavelength ranges to a whole body, to a selectedbody component, or to a few adjacent body components, using a controlledsequence of exposures that illuminate the targeted body components. Anytwo consecutive time intervals of continuous radiation exposure arespaced apart by a “dark field” time interval whose length is at leastequal to a threshold value, in order to re-establish a randomization ofelectron transport and distribution resulting from application ofphotons during a continuous exposure interval. Radiation is delivered toone or more selected (adjacent) body components, using an enhancedfocussing system that increases the efficiency of delivery of theradiation. The radiation delivery system can be fitted or molded topreferentially illuminate only the desired body components. Severaldifferent modules are provided, including light delivery components thatcan be combined or used in stand-alone mode for delivery of light topart or all of the head, the interior of the mouth, one or more selectedbody parts and/or one or more selected acupuncture sites. Light therapyin or near the visible range can be combined with static or time-varyingmagnetic fields to provide additional effects and benefits.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1-12 schematically illustrate apparatus for delivery of radiationto selected (adjacent) body components according to embodiments of theinvention.

FIG. 13 schematically illustrates a suitable pattern of light sourcesfor different wavelengths.

FIGS. 14A and 14B graphically illustrate time intervals for irradiationusing different wavelength ranges according to two embodiments of theinvention.

FIGS. 15, 16 and 17 illustrate suitable light intensity patterns versustime for delivery of radiation according to the invention.

FIG. 18 is a representative graphical view of an average number of freeelectrons produced by an incident photon with a specified energy E.

FIG. 19 is a schematic view illustrating apparatus that can be used topractice the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF BEST MODES OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a light delivery wrap system 11 suitable forgenerating and delivering radiation to one or more selected bodycomponents according to the invention. The system 11 includes anelectrical power source 13 that delivers controllable power to anassembly 15 of generators of electromagnetic radiation in the form oflight in the visible and near infrared ranges (e.g., with wavelengths λin a range 400 nm≦λ≦1500 nm). Optionally, the light generated by theradiation generator assembly 15 also may have wavelengths in anear-ultraviolet range (e.g., 350 nm≦λ≦400 nm) and may have longerwavelengths in a mid-infrared range (λ>1500 nm), or in selected portionsof one or more of these wavelength ranges.

Each radiation generator in the assembly 15 may be a laser, a lightemitting diode, an intense incandescent light source, an intensefluorescent light source or any other suitable intense light source, ora combination of two or more such light sources. Preferably, theradiation generator assembly 15 is positioned on a light delivery wrapmechanism 16 that is configured to contact and wrap around a selectedbody component 19, a group of two or more adjacent body components orthe whole body, so that each radiation generator is spaced apart fromthe body component 19 by at least a selected threshold distance d(thr),to provide some control over the rate at which light is delivered tothis body component. A suitable threshold distance is d(thr)=1-10 cm.However, direct contact with the body is appropriate in some instances.If the assembly 15 provides light in one or more unwanted wavelengthranges, one or more filters 17 (optional) may be positioned between theradiation generator assembly 15 and the selected body component(s) 19 tobe treated. The radiation generator assembly 15 may produce a single ora few beams of light that are directed toward the body component 19,considered as a target. Preferably, the radiation generator assembly 15produces many light beams that are directed toward the body component19. The system optionally includes a light focussing mechanism 21 thatpreferentially directs light produced by the radiation generatorassembly 15 toward one or more target sites 19-j (j=1, 2, . . . ). Insome situations, the light beams are produced in a pattern surrounding aselected body part, such as an arm or a leg, so that the selected bodypart and adjacent body parts are irradiated together in a (diffuse)field effect.

The radiation generator assembly 15 includes a timer 23 that activatesand deactivates (turns on and turns off) the radiation generator duringselected exposure time intervals, with any two consecutive continuousexposure (light) time intervals having a first selected length Δt(exp),separated by a dark field time interval that has a second selectedlength Δt(dark). This (light/dark/light) activity and its inverse(dark/light/dark) are sometimes referred to as a “reciprocating chase.”The first selected length lies in a preferred range 0.1 sec≦Δt(exp)≦1sec, and the second selected length Δt(dark) is preferably between 0.1sec and 1 sec.

A light reflecting mechanism 25 (optional) is positioned adjacent to theradiation generator assembly 15 to capture and direct light toward theselected body component 19 to couple some or all of the generated lightthat would otherwise have been lost into that body component. A lightconcentrator, condenser or other light focussing mechanism 21 (optional)is positioned between the radiation generator assembly 15 and the bodycomponent 19, to selectably concentrate (or to scatter within the body)the generated light on and around the body component 19, the whole bodyor selected sites on the selected body component.

In FIG. 1, the selected body component 19 is a portion of, or all of,the head. The radiation generator assembly 15 optionally includes afirst assembly component 15A that wraps around the chin, mouth and jawsof a patient, and optionally provides radiation within the patient'smouth, and a second assembly component 15B that wraps around the upperjaws, nose, eyes, ears, forehead, upper neck and uppermost portion ofthe head of the patient. Optionally, the first and second assemblycomponents, 15A and 15B, can be hooked together to form a unitaryassembly 15 and can be disassembled into two or more components, such as15A and 15B, to illuminate separate groups of body components.

In one mode of operation, a flexible light delivery wrap 31, illustratedin FIG. 2, is connected to the radiation generator 15 in FIG. 1 and iswrapped around (a portion of) a toe, a foot, an ankle, a leg, a thigh, ahip, a torso, a shoulder, an arm, an elbow, a forearm, a wrist, a hand,a finger, a neck and a top portion of a head or other body appendage ofthe patient. The light delivery wrap 31 includes a rectangular,triangular, polygonal, ovular or other array 33 of light deliveryelements 35(i,j) (i=1, 2, . . . , J1; j=1, 2, . . . , J2; J1>1; J2>1)that are individually activated in a timed sequence that may be thesame, or different, for each light delivery element. In a first version,where the array 33 is rectangular or triangular, each row of lightdelivery elements 35(i,j) (i=1, 2, . . . , J1; j fixed) is activated andis deactivated as a unit. In a second version, where the array isrectangular or triangular, the light delivery elements 35(i,j) (i=1, 3,5, . . . ; j fixed) and 35(i,j) (i=2, 4, 6, . . . ; j fixed) areactivated and are deactivated as separate units. Other patterns forlight delivery activation and deactivation can also be used, dependingupon the effect desired. Alternatively, the light delivery wrap 31 maybe configured to enclose the entire body, or a substantial portionthereof. Preferably, this entire-body wrap does not enclose thepatient's head, for which an independently controlled light deliverywrap, 41 and/or 51 (shown in FIGS. 3 and 4) is provided.

FIG. 3 illustrates a modular light delivery wrap 41 for a lower portionof a patient's head 43. The wrap 41 includes J light delivery elements45-j (j=1, 2, . . . J; J≧2) whose positions can be adjusted to alocation closer to, or further from, the patient's head 43. The lightdelivery wrap 41 also includes a light delivery control module 47 and asuitable power supply 49. The light delivery elements 45-j can be madeindividually activatable (on/off) and can be individually activatedwithin one or more time intervals. Thus, for example, a light deliveryelement 45-j 1 may be moved to a position within 1-10 cm of a portion ofa patient's face that has a discoloration (e.g., based on a medicalcondition), the light delivery element can be rendered activatable, andthe light delivery element can be activated (pulsed or continuous mode)for a sequence of selected time intervals, for example, 40 sec perminute with a 10-90 percent duty cycle. The wrap 41 has also been usedsuccessfully for acne reduction, for scar reduction and for stressrelief for one or more body components.

FIG. 4A illustrates a modular light delivery wrap 50A that combines thelower portion light delivery wrap 41 shown in FIG. 3 with a second lightdelivery wrap 51A that covers part or all of the upper portion of apatient's head 53. Optionally, each of the light delivery wraps, 41 and51A, includes one or more light delivery elements 55-j (j=1, 2, . . . ).Optionally, the second light delivery wrap 51 includes one or moreapertures 52A in the wrap for the patient's eyes so that an eye is notsubjected to direct illumination by a light delivery element 55-j. Thelight delivery wrap 50 also includes a light delivery control module 57and a suitable power supply 59. The wrap 50: (1) provides a combinationof two or more light delivery wrap components, here 41 and 51; (2)optionally provides an intra-aural mechanism for the interior of apatient's mouth or other cavity; (3) allows adjustment of a distancebetween at least one light delivery element 55-j (j=1, 2, . . . ; J≧2)and an adjacent portion of the skin of a patient; (4) providesindividual activation of light delivery elements so that one or moreelements can be activated (turned on intermittently) and one or moreother elements can be deactivated; and (5) provides adjustable lightactivation interval and dark field interval lengths (e.g., 0.1-1 sec)and adjustable duty cycles (e.g., 10-90 percent).

FIG. 4B illustrates a one-piece light delivery system 50B that coversmost or all of the patient's face with a light delivery wrap 51B.Optionally, the light delivery wrap 51B includes one or more of an eyeaperture 52B, a nose aperture 56B, a mouth aperture and an ear aperture(not shown) so that an eye and/or nose and/or mouth and/or ear is notsubjected to direct illumination by a light delivery element 55-j. Thelight delivery system 50B also includes a light delivery control module57 and a suitable power supply 59.

FIG. 5 illustrates a modular light delivery module 61 for the interiorof a patient's mouth 63. The wrap 61 includes J light delivery elements65-j (j=1, 2, . . . ; J≧2) whose positions can be adjusted to a locationcloser to, or further from, the patient's mouth 63. The light deliverymodule 61 also includes a light delivery control module 67 and asuitable power supply 69. The light delivery elements 65-j can be madeindividually activatable (on/off) and can be individually activatedwithin one or more time intervals, as in the light delivery wrap 41 or51 shown in FIG. 3 or FIGS. 4A/4B. The light delivery module 61 can beplaced adjacent to the patient's teeth and/or gums within the mouth 63and activated one or more times within a time interval to suppress oreliminate the growth or presence of dental caries, root regeneration,loose teeth or other dental diseases, or the presence of diabetes. Oneor more light delivery elements 65-j can also be positioned near, anddirected at, the roof of the patient's mouth 63 to irradiate andsuppress growth of a bacterial or viral disease associated with themouth interior, to support or boost the immune system, or to regenerateor maintain desirable reactions within the body. Optionally, the lightdelivery module 61 can be inserted into the mouth in a deflatedcondition, inflated for use on the mouth, then deflated for removal fromthe mouth. *Optionally, the light delivery module 61 is flexible so thatits shape can be molded or reformed to fit the shape of the mouthinterior.

FIG. 6 illustrates another shape, an egg-shaped or spheroidal lightdelivery module 71, having J individually activatable light deliveryelements 75-j (j=1, 2, . . . ; J≧2), connected to a light deliverycontrol module 77 and to a suitable power supply 79. The light deliverymodule 71 may have any of a range of sizes. The light delivery module 71may be a prolate spheroid with a≈2 cm minimum diameter and b≈4 cmmaximum diameter, which is slipped into and out of a patient's mouth.The light delivery module 71 is optionally inserted into the mouth in adeflated condition, inflated for use in the mouth, then deflated forremoval from the mouth.

FIG. 7 illustrates a tube-shaped or prolate spheroid light deliverymodule 81 having J individually activatable light delivery modules 85-j(j=1, 2, . . . , J; J≧2), connected to a light delivery control module87 and to a suitable power supply 89. The light delivery module 81 has atransverse diameter D (small or large) that is suitable for insertion ofthe module into the vaginal or urethral or other reproduction cavity ofa female or male and is preferably arranged so that the module can beinserted in a deflated state and subsequently inflated by a suitableamount for therapy, then deflated for removal. Alternatively, the lightdelivery module 81 is elastic and easily compressible to allow insertionand removal of the module in a partly compressed state. The lightdelivery module 81 is suitable for treatment or reduction of female ormale genital disorders, such as genital herpes, yeast infections,prostate problems, post-surgical stimulations, hemorrhoids and the like.Preferably, most or all light delivery modules 85-j are located at oneend of the light delivery module 81.

FIG. 8 illustrates a light delivery wrap 91 in the form of a hair net,upper head covering or similar configuration having a grid-likeconstruction upon which J light delivery elements 95-j (j=1, 2, . . . ,J; J≧2) are mounted. The light delivery elements 95-j are connected to alight delivery control module 97 and a suitable power supply 99. Thelight delivery wrap 91 is useful for treating disorders of the scalp,the hair follicles and/or the ears of a patient's head, and inperforming photo-acupuncture at one or more head meridians.

*The hair net, head covering or hat 91 shown in FIG. 8 can be reformedand extended, as an open format light delivery wrap, to be wrappedaround a toe, a foot, an ankle, a leg, a thigh, a hip, a torso, ashoulder, an arm, an elbow, a forearm, a wrist, a hand, a finger, a neckor a portion of a head., to provide light therapy to a selected bodypart. The light delivery control module for the light delivery wrap,such as the hair net 91, can be arranged to be worn on the patient'swaist or neck. This open format light delivery wrap can be worn insidethe patient's clothes, if desired.

FIG. 9 illustrates a light delivery wrap 101 in the form of a hat orhead covering, preferably made of soft, pliable fabric, having agrid-like construction upon which light delivery elements 105-j (j=1, 2,. . . , J; J≧2) are mounted. Optionally, the head covering 101 is madeof an elastic material so that a portion 103 of the covering can bestretched and positioned contiguous to the wearer's head, therebyirradiating adjacent regions of the wearer's head. The light deliveryelements 105-j are connected to a light delivery control module 107 anda suitable power supply 109. The light delivery wrap 101 can be worn forgeneral living activities without interfering with those activities.Optionally, in use of the apparatus illustrated in FIG. 8 or 9, backsupport and/or torso support for the user is provided for treatmentand/or post-treatment recovery.

FIG. 10 illustrates a light delivery module 111 for placement on aportion of a patient's skin, as a substitute for, or supplement to,acupuncture treatment. The light delivery module 111 includes one, two,three or more peripheral light delivery elements 15-j (j=1, 2, 3, . . .) surrounding and spaced apart (preferably by 0.5-2 cm) from a centrallight delivery element 115C that is used to position the module 111and/or to deliver additional light to a selected site. The central lightdelivery element 115C may deliver light in the same wavelength range(s)as is delivered by the peripheral light delivery modules 115-j or maydeliver light in one, two or more wavelength ranges that are differentfrom the wavelength range(s) delivered by the peripheral light deliveryelements 115-j. Preferably, the wavelength range for the central lightdelivery module 115C includes at least a portion of the visiblespectrum. The light delivery wrap 111 also includes a light deliverycontrol module 117 and a suitable power supply 119.

The central light delivery module 115C in FIG. 10 is preferablypositioned at or adjacent to a known or suspected acupuncture point ormeridian AP. The peripheral and/or central light delivery elements,115-j and/or 115C, are activated and deliver light in one or moreselected wavelength ranges to the acupuncture meridian and surroundingtissues, to supplement or replace a conventional acupuncture treatmentthat uses needles. One advantage of replacement of conventionalacupuncture treatment by light therapy, delivered to the same site(s),is that the patient's skin need not be mechanically punctured. Use oflight therapy (1) avoids possible introduction of bacteria or otherorganisms at an acupuncture site, (2) avoids allergic and other similarreactions to the material (metals, etc.) used in acupuncture tools and(3) allows simultaneous delivery to multiple sites.

The light delivery elements 115-j in the light delivery module 111 canbe supplemented by one or more static or time-varying magnetic fieldsources 116-j, as indicated in FIG. 10; the (peak) magnetic fieldstrength can range from 100-10,000 Gauss, or higher if desired. A staticand/or time-varying magnetic field having an associated frequencyf=1-10⁴ Hz, or higher if desired, is optionally provided as part of thelight-plus-magnetic field therapy. An acupuncture channel maypreferentially transport a magnetic field in somewhat the same mannerthat a light beam is believed to be preferentially transported by anacupuncture channel.

*The light delivery module 111 can be “ganged” together with one or moreadditional, similar light delivery modules in a modularized approach tocover a surface region of the patient's body larger than can be coveredby a single light delivery module. Optionally, the light deliverycontrol module 117 for two or more individual light delivery modules areintegrated so that a single light delivery control module 117 controlsthe light sequences and wavelengths and/or magnetic field frequencies fdelivered by a group of two or more ganged-together light deliverymodules 111.

Light therapy may also be applied in the form of a modular electronic orelectromagnetic or photonic band-aid 121, illustrated in FIGS. 11A-11Dand 12, and including one, two or more modular band-aid components,122-1, 122-2, etc. that are optionally disposable. Each band-aidcomponent, 122-1 and 122-2, includes an adhesion mechanism 123(adhesive, velcro, mechanical wrap-around, hooks, etc.) that adheres toa selected portion of a patient's skin or clothes, and includes J lightdelivery elements 125-j (j=1, 2, . . . ; J≧2) that are selectivelyactivated by a light delivery control module 127 and a suitable powersupply 129. Optionally, the control module 127 and/or power supply 129are miniaturized and self-contained and are worn or carried on thepatient's body 126. The band-aid 121 may be applied to provide a “faststart” for a surface or sub-surface healing or other treatment process(e.g., for emergency use) or may be applied longer term as an integralpart of a total healing process or for body component maintenance.

*In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11A, the individual photonic band-aidcomponents 122-j are rectangular. FIGS. 11B, 11C and 11D illustratesuitable other shapes for band-aid components, including regulartriangles, regular hexagons and non-regular polygons. Two or moreband-aid components or varying shapes can be used to cover a largersurface region or a surface region of irregular or unusual shape, or toreplace a photonic band-aid component that is no longer operational. Oneor more of the light delivery elements 125-j shown in FIG. 11A can besupplemented with a magnetic field source, such as the magnetic fieldsources 116-j shown in FIG. 10.

*Where a photonic band-aid is to be worn for more than a certain timeinterval, such as more than 8 or 16 or 24 hours, the associated powersupply 129 is preferably rechargeable so that the module 121 can berenewed by recharging the battery in place. In this situation, a powersupply 129 is optionally provided with a first power supply module thatis presently being used and a second, adjacent power supply module thatis not presently being used and that can be recharged in parallel withpresent use of the first power supply module, without requiring removalof the photonic band-aid from service.

FIG. 13 illustrates a suitable light delivery pattern, in which selectedlight sources (e.g., light emitting diodes) deliver light in one, two,three or more selected wavelength ranges.

The preferred frequencies of application of the magnetic field are thefollowing: (i) 1.7 Hz and/or 8 Hz (primarily for general stressreduction or relief); (ii) 4 Hz and/or 80 Hz (primarily for relief ofsports-related stress); (iii) around 266 Hz (primarily for regenerationor cosmetic purposes); and/or (iv) other low frequencies suitable forstress relief, component regeneration and/or maintenance of beneficialchemical or physical reactions. For dental applications, the preferredfrequencies of application are similar but further include a frequencyof application around 666 Hz for regeneration. These treatments arenormally applied for time intervals of 15-45 minutes but can be appliedfor shorter or longer time intervals as well.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the light sources for thedifferent wavelength ranges provide light in different time intervals,with or without a dark field time interval imposed between twoconsecutive irradiation time intervals. FIG. 14A is a graphical view oftime intervals during which the first, second and third light sources(1), (2) and (3) are activated in a non-overlapping manner. FIG. 14B isa graphical view of a second version, in which the light sources (1),(2) and (3) are activated in selected overlapping time intervals. Moregenerally, N sets of independently activatable light sources (N=1, 2 or3 in FIG. 13) are provided, and N wavelength ranges are chosen withinthe visible, near-infrared and mid-infrared wavelengths.

Each light delivery element (e.g., 35(i,j) in FIG. 2) may deliver lightin one or more selected wavelength ranges, when this element isactivated, and adjacent light delivery elements may deliver the same, ordifferent, wavelength ranges. In a preferred embodiment, each lightdelivery element delivers one or more selected ranges of lightwavelengths. More generally, light in any of N color ranges can bedelivered (e.g., N=7), and the color ranges are chosen according to thetreatment or therapy to be provided and the chosen color ranges can bechanged as a treatment or therapy session proceeds.

*It is often appropriate to deliver light in two, three or morewavelength ranges in a coordinated manner, either simultaneously, or inoverlapping or non-overlapping but adjacent time intervals. Lightemitting diodes (LEDs) are being developed that allow generation anddelivery of light in two or three separate wavelength rangessimultaneously. For example, wavelength intervals including two or moreof the following wavelengths have been found to be useful for healingand/or regeneration purposes: λ=470 nm (useful for treating Alzheimer'sdisease), 550 nm, 637 nm (useful for skin or surface healing), 666 nm,890 nm and 905 nm. Anticipated synergistic effects through substantiallysimultaneous application of two or more of these wavelengths include thefollowing: ______. Other attractive applications include treatment ofbed sores, relief from winter depression in sun-deficient climates,internal body healing and enhancement of generation of human growthhormone (HGH) in some persons (up to a 148 percent increase in HGH witha 30-day light therapy treatment three times per week). Preferably, thelight therapy treatment is applied two or three times per week during aninitial stage, followed by a maintenance phase of one application perweek.

FIGS. 15, 16 and 17 illustrate representative light intensity patternsof light activation (exposure interval) and deactivation (dark fieldinterval) that can be used for the individual light elements 35(i,j) inFIG. 2. In FIG. 15, the light intensity I(t;i;j) is (substantially) 0,then rises quickly to a maximum value I(max), then decreasesmonotonically to a lower value I(min) over an exposure time interval oflength Δt(exp), then goes to a (substantially) zero value for a darkfield time interval of length Δt(dark), then repeats this pattern atleast once.

In FIG. 16, the light intensity I(t;i;j) rises monotonically from a(substantially) zero value to a maximum value I(max), then falls quicklyto a minimum or zero value I(min), over an exposure time interval oflength Δt(exp), then goes to a (substantially) zero value for a darkfield time interval of length Δt(dark), then repeats this pattern atleast once.

In FIG. 17, the light intensity I(t;i;j) rises to a first maximum valueI(max;1), optionally continues at or near that level for a firstselected illumination time interval of length Δt1, falls to a firstlower value I(min;1), goes to 0 for a dark field time interval of lengthΔt(dark), rises to a second maximum value I(max;2), optionally continuesat that level for a second selected illumination time interval of lengthΔt1, falls to a second lower value I(min;2), then goes to 0. The maximumintensities I(max;1) and I(max;2) may be the same or may differ, theminimum intensities I(min;1) and I(min;2) may be the same or may differ,and one or both of the minimum intensities I(min;1) and I(min;2) may be0. Light intensity patterns other than those shown in FIGS. 14, 15 and16 can be used.

Each photon delivered to the vicinity of the body component 19 (FIG. 1)is intended to produce one or more (preferably many) free electronsthrough photoelectric absorption and/or Compton scattering of the photonin its peregrinations through the body component and surroundingmaterial. I have found, by analogy with the Einstein photoelectriceffect in a metallic or crystalline material, that the photon energy Emust be at least a threshold value E(thr), which lies in a range ofabout 0.8-3.1 eV, depending upon the atomic and/or molecularconstituents of the selected body component and surrounding material, inorder to produce at least one free electron as the photon undergoesscattering within the body. A photon with a wavelength λ=500 nm has anassociated energy of 2.48 eV, for example. Not all photons with energiesE just above the threshold value E(thr) will produce a free electron. Agraph of average number N_(avg)(E) of free electrons produced for agiven incident photon energy E might resemble the graph in FIG. 18. Thisgraph is similar to a graph of average number of free electrons producedby a photon incident on a metallic or crystalline material according tothe Einstein model.

Another important parameter is the rate r at which energy (or photons)is delivered to a unit area (e.g., over 1 cm²) of body surface per unittime (e.g., in 1 sec), during an exposure time interval. Our experimentsindicate that energy density rates r in a range 0.0013Joules/cm²/sec≦r≦0.02 Joules/cm²/sec, averaged over a time interval of5-45 min, is an appropriate range for many body components. Delivery ofenergy at a rate lower than about 0.0013 Joules/cm²/sec will have someeffect but will require much longer radiation application times than atypical application time of 5-45 min. Delivery of energy at a rategreater than about 0.02 Joules/cm²/sec may saturate the body's abilityto distribute the photon energy and may produce burns, ionization orother undesired local sensitization of the body. The peak lightintensity I(t;i;j), shown in the examples of FIGS. 13, 14 and 15, willdetermine, or will be determined by, the energy rate r.

Another important parameter is accumulated energy E(accum) delivered perunit area for the session in which radiation is applied. Our experimentsindicate that an accumulated energy density range of 2.5Joules/cm²≦E(accum)≦20 Joules/cm² is an appropriate range for many bodycomponents.

FIG. 19 schematically illustrates apparatus 150 that can be used topractice the invention for a patient's whole body, or parts thereof. Acontrol panel 151 controls the exposure time intervals, the dark fieldtime intervals, the maximum intensity(ies), the particular intensitypattern(s) to be applied, the wavelength or frequency range(s) to beapplied, target body component(s) and/or other relevant parameters,through control panel output signals delivered to a driver module 153.The driver module receives timing signals from a timer module 154 andreceives electrical power (preferably regulated power) from one or morevoltage sources, 155A and/or 155B, that deliver voltage(s), V1 and/orV2, or electrical current. At least one of the control panel 151 and thedriver module 153 includes a computer to process information and/orcommands needed to provide appropriate light wavelengths in theappropriate time intervals according to the invention. The driver module153 delivers power to one or more of a left hand/arm exposure pad 157-1,a left foot/leg exposure pad 159-1, a right hand/arm exposure pad 157-2,a right foot/leg exposure pad 159-2 a neck/shoulder(s)/back exposure pad161, and/or a light exposure canopy 163 covering part or all of apatient's body, each of which has an optional associated cumulativeexposure monitor and/or exposure rate monitor connected to thecorresponding exposure pad or exposure canopy. Optionally, one or moreof these exposure pads may have its own electrical power supply,received directly from the driver module 153. The exposure pads areindividually controlled and can deliver different (or the same) exposurepatterns and different (or the same) wavelength ranges to target bodycomponents associated with the different exposure pads, in the same timeintervals or in different time intervals. In some situations, it isappropriate to provide at least two voltages sources, such as V1=5 voltsand V2=12 volts.

I have found that insertion of a dark field time interval between twoconsecutive continuous exposure time intervals is useful in allowing theirradiated portion of the body to re-establish local equilibrium beforethe next pulse of photons arrives. The time interval required forre-establishing local equilibrium appears to vary from 0.1 sec to about1 sec, depending upon variables such as the energy rate r, theaccumulated energy E(accum) and the selected body component(s)irradiated. If the dark field time interval has a length less than athreshold value Δt(dark) (including a situation where no dark fieldinterval is present), the additional photons delivered may encounter abody environment that is not at or near equilibrium and that “channels”these photons in particular directions or into particular reactionchannels, which is generally undesirable. Where two consecutive exposuretime intervals are separated by a dark field time interval of length atleast Δt(dark), the irradiated portion of the body is able tore-establish local equilibrium, or near-equilibrium, so that most or allphotons within a given exposure time interval encounter substantiallythe same local environment, and a random or Monte Carlo type of photonscattering occurs within the next exposure time interval.

The free electrons thus produced ultimately come to equilibrium with thebody component and adjacent material within the body, by attachment to aatom or molecule that can support attachment by another electron or byassociation with a assembly of substantially-free electrons that areweakly bound by the general electronic background of the local atomicand molecular constituents of the body. These equilibrated electronshave transferred substantially all their initial kinetic energy to oneor more molecules in or adjacent to the body component, thus providingenergy to promote certain healing processes in the body.

Phototherapy is the application of light from an artificial light sourceto stimulate or promote one or more therapeutic effects in the body ofan animal. such as a human being. Photons from the, light source areabsorbed by the body through the skin, through the eyes and throughacupuncture points or meridians. Light absorbed through one or moreacupuncture points is believed to be transported especially efficientlyalong channels, referred to as biologically closed electrical paths or“meridians”, in the body, through a process similar to internalreflection of light in an optical fiber (whose refractive index isgreater than the refractive index of the surrounding body materialthrough which such a channel passes. These channels are believed to beconnective tissue protein fibers having specialized optical properties,including refractive indices η that are greater than the refractiveindices η′ of surrounding tissues, organs and other body material(wherein η′(avg)≈1.4).

Only light in certain wavelength ranges will be transported efficientlythrough these channels. Absorption of light transported in one or moreof these channels has the potential to increase cell metabolism from adepressed state to a normal level. Light in the 600-800 nm wavelengthrange appears to be transported with little absorption or scatteringwithin these channels. Sergei Pankratov, of the Institute for Clinicaland Experimental Medicine in Novosibirsk, Russia, has reported thatmarked light transporting properties of some of these channels, whicheasily transport light into tissues deeper within the body, “MeridiansConduct Light”, Raum und Zeit, vol. 35(88) (1991) pp. 16-18. A terminalon the skin of such a channel often coincides with an acupuncture pointor meridian identified by Chinese physicians several millenia ago. Inaddition to its optical properties, a light transport channel hasassociated thermal properties, such as heat conductivity and heatcapacity, that differ from those of surrounding tissues.

Phototherapy activates cell membranes within the body by increasing amembrane's natural electrical charge, sometimes referred to as “membranecapacitance.” A body is, in a sense, “charged” with photons, and thebody's natural electromagnetic field (“biofield”) aids in organizingmolecular structures in repair, regeneration and reproduction of cellsand cell components and serves as a signal communication system inregulation of metabolic processes. The biofield may also serve as apower grid to provide electrical and/or chemical energy to drive andcontrol biochemical and biophysical enzyme reactions that are part of ametabolic process. One such process is: (1) receipt and conversion oflight in a channel; (2) activation of cell enzymes; and (3) enhancedproduction of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) from the activated enzymes,as the primary energy source for a body. Use of phototherapy tostimulate production and/or assimilation of human growth hormone (HGH)within the body is another attractive application.

One researcher, Tiina Karu has determined that light absorption bycellular structures enhances a number of cell-related activities: cellreplication, cell metabolism, protein synthesis, ATP production,mitochondria replication, phagocytosis, and photodissociation ofoxygenated hemoglobin (The Science of Low-Power Laser Therapy, Gordonand Breach, 1998, “Photobiology of Low Power Laser Effects”, HealthPhysics, vol. 56, May 1989). Karu has also found that absorption oflight affects tissue-related activities, including: capillary formation,parasympathetic nervous system stimulation, increased endorphin release,increased production and release of adrenal steroids, reduction in painand in inflammation, reduction of tissue edema, immune systemstimulation, enhanced fibroblastic production and collagen synthesis,and accelerated healing of wounds.

Several tests have been performed on a small group (27) of adultsubjects that appeared to be representative of the adult population.Biological terrain assessment was performed to obtain a generalunderstanding of certain internal elements of a body's control system,including analyses of blood, urine and saliva for the factors of pH(acid/alkali balance), rH2 (oxidative stress) and r (mineral content).About 81 percent of the test subjects showed a reduction in selectedbiological aging markers after a four week therapy session oftwice-weekly treatments, with no plateau in such reduction during thetherapy session; and 100 percent of the test subjects experienced a dropin rH2, indicating increased cellular absorption of electrons and higherATP energy production.

An Endocrine Panel was performed on each test subject, measuringadrenal, gonadal and thyroid functions, as well as melatonin end humangrowth hormone (HGH) levels. All test subjects had significantimprovements HGH levels after the four-week therapy session. Thyroidfunction improvement, as manifested by higher levels of activetriodothyronine and melatonin secretion, was found in most testsubjects.

A GENOX oxidative stress test, including 82 related assays that havesome correlation with life expectancy, was performed initially (toprovide a reference) and after the four-week therapy session. All testsubjects showed increased ATP production.

An Immune Panel 2 was performed, measuring response of several immunefunctions to immune system stimulation. Interleukins and lymphokines,which regulate humeral and cell-mediated immune response, were improved,and numbers of T cell subsets increased, indicating improved T cellfunction.

Adrenal Stress Index (ASI) tests were performed to measure hyper- andhypo-adrenocortisol states, deregulation of the hypothalmic pituitarygland adrenal axis and intestinal secretory IgA, and a gliadin antibodytest was performed. The ASI tests provide a measure of effects ofchronic stress on organ reserve. Chronic stress often leads to a morecatabolic state, with increased metabolic destruction. A significantreduction in cortisol, ranging from 23 to 81 percent, was found in thetest subjects, indicating a reduction presence of the catabolic state.

DHEA/cortisol ratios were measured to evaluate the anabolic/catabolicstate. Each test subject improved during the therapy session. Intestinalsecretory IgA, which is a measure of mucosal immunity and has a lowvalue where food allergies, chronic fungi and parasitic infections arepresent, was improved by 25 to 300 percent in the test subjects.

A urinary free radical test was performed to measure metabolites oflipid peroxidation in urine. Decreases of 33 to 66 percent in freeradical generation were found in the test subjects, indicating adecreased likelihood of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

A heart rate variability (HRV) test, measuring beat-to-beat variability,was performed on each test subject in a sitting position and in astanding position. A strong correlation exists between high variabilityand cardiovascular problems such as coronary artery disease, heartattack, and prolonged recovery from such an attack. The test subjectsconsistently showed improvement in HRV, with no change in lifestyle ordiet.

Blood pressure tests performed on the test subjects showed a 5-10 mm Hgdrop in systolic pressure and 3-7 mm Hg drop in diastolic pressure,relative to blood pressure levels measured before the therapy sessionbegan. However, some of this improvement often disappeared after thetherapy session ended and light therapy treatment had been discontinued.

Aqueous hydrogen peroxide production was measured before the therapysession began and after the four-week session ended. Aqueous hydrogenperoxides are free radical generators and oxidants used to fightinfection and to support the immune system. A balance of oxidants andanti-oxidants is needed in the body. The test subjects consistentlyshowed a significant reduction from pre-treatment levels, indicating thelight therapy is not generating net gains in free radical populations.

Glutathione, red blood cell count and plasma were measured to evaluateanti-oxidant activity. Glutathione provides some of the most potentanti-oxidant reserves in the body. Levels of vitamin C, vitamin E,glutathione, beta-carotene, uric acid, albumin, ferritin, ceruloplasminand transferin, which scavenge oxygen species of free radicals, weremeasured. Depletion of anti-oxidants is important in the ageing processand in associated diseases, such as arteriosclerosis, cancer, asthma,diabetes and immune deficiency diseases. The glutathione reservescontinued to be regulated and were not depleted or interfered withduring the therapy session.

1. A method of illuminating an animal's body, the method comprising:positioning a light delivery module adjacent to a selected component ofan animal's body, the module having first and second light deliveryelements that can each be activated to intermittently illuminate thebody component with light having at least two wavelengths; exposing thebody component to light from the first light delivery element of thelight delivery module, the first element having a first selected rangeof wavelengths and a second selected range of wavelengths that does notsubstantially overlap the first range, for a first selected exposuretime interval, and allowing light received in this first time intervalto produce at least one free electron within or adjacent to the bodycomponent; exposing the body component to light from the second lightdelivery element of the light delivery module, the second element havinga third selected range of wavelengths and a fourth selected range ofwavelengths that does not substantially overlap the third range, for asecond selected exposure time interval, and allowing light received inthis second time interval to produce at least one free electron withinor adjacent to the body component, where the first and second exposuretime intervals are spaced apart by a dark time interval having aselected length Δt(dark) that is at least about 0.1 sec; and allowingthe at least one free electron produced during each of the first andsecond exposure time intervals to come to equilibrium with the bodyadjacent to or within the body component.
 2. The method of claim 1,further comprising including in at least one of said first, second,third and fourth wavelength ranges at least one of the followingwavelengths: 470 nm, 550 nm, 637 nm, 666 nm, 890 nm and 905 nm.
 3. Themethod of claim 1, further comprising providing said light deliverymodule with a power supply system that comprises first and secondindependent power supplies, where the first power supply is capable ofsupplying power for operation of said light delivery module while thesecond power supply is being recharged.
 4. The method of claim 1,further comprising providing said light delivery module with a lightdelivery wrap that is configured to be wrapped around at least a portionof at least one of the following locations on said animal: a toe, afoot, an ankle, a leg, a thigh, a hip, a torso, a shoulder, an arm, anelbow, a forearm, a wrist, a hand, a finger, a neck and a top portion ofa head.
 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising: providing saidlight delivery module with an attachment mechanism that attaches saidlight delivery module to a selected region of skin of said animal; andproviding a portable power supply system, connected to and supplyingpower for said light delivery module.
 6. The method of claim 5, furthercomprising providing said attachment mechanism as a bandaid having ashape that is substantially polygonal.
 7. The method of claim 5, furthercomprising: providing a second light delivery module and a secondattachment mechanism that attaches said light delivery module to asecond selected region of skin of said animal, where the second regionis adjacent to said first region; and connecting the second lightdelivery module to said power supply module so that delivery ofelectrical power to the second light delivery module is integrated withdelivery of power to said first light delivery module.
 8. The method ofclaim 7, further comprising providing each of said first attachmentmechanism and said second attachment mechanism as a bandaid having ashape that is substantially polygonal, where said first and secondattachment mechanisms can be positioned to be contiguous along a firstselected boundary of said first attachment mechanism and a secondselected boundary of said second attachment mechanism.
 9. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising providing, as said light delivery module, alight delivery wrap, including at least one of said first and secondlight delivery elements, that is positioned adjacent to a lower portionof a head of said animal.
 10. The method of claim 1, further comprisingproviding, as said light delivery module, a light delivery wrap,including at least one of said first and second light delivery elements,that is positioned adjacent to an upper portion of a head of saidanimal.
 11. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing, as saidlight delivery module, a light delivery wrap, including at least one ofsaid first and second light delivery elements, that comprises a firstmodular component positioned adjacent to a lower portion of a head ofthe animal and a second modular component positioned adjacent to anupper portion of the animal's head, wherein the first and second modularcomponents together cover substantially all of the upper portion and thelower portion of said animal's head.
 12. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising providing said light delivery module with a light deliverywrap covering substantially all of an upper portion and a lower portionof said animal's head and containing, on the light delivery wrap, atleast one aperture for at least one of a group consisting of an eye, anose, an ear and a mouth.
 13. The method of claim 1, further comprisingproviding, as said light delivery module, a light delivery module thatfits within said animal's mouth and illuminates a selected portion of aninterior of said animal's mouth.
 14. The method of claim 13, furthercomprising illuminating, with said light delivery module, at least oneof a tooth, a gum region adjacent to the tooth, and a portion of a roofin said animal's mouth.
 15. The method of claim 13, further comprisingdeflating or compressing said light delivery module before insertioninto said animal's mouth and inflating or de-compressing said lightdelivery module after insertion of said light delivery module into saidanimal's mouth.
 16. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing,as said light delivery module, a light delivery module that fits withina cavity of said animal used for reproduction and illuminates a selectedportion of an interior of the cavity of said animal.
 17. The method ofclaim 16, further comprising deflating or compressing said lightdelivery module before insertion into said cavity and inflating orde-compressing said light delivery module after insertion into saidcavity.
 18. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing, as saidlight delivery module, a light delivery module that attaches to aselected portion of skin of said animal and provides illumination thatinduces a medical healing process in a vicinity of the selected portionof the skin.
 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising providing aportable power supply, carried by or attached to said animal, for saidlight delivery module.
 20. The method of claim 18, further comprisingchoosing said selected portion of said skin adjacent to, or coincidentwith, an acupuncture meridian for said animal.
 21. The method of claim1, further comprising exposing said selected body component tosubstantially no light within said first and second selected wavelengthranges and to substantially no light within said third and fourthselected wavelength ranges, during said dark time interval.
 22. Themethod of claim 1, further comprising choosing at least one of saidfirst wavelength range, said second wavelength range, said thirdwavelength range and said fourth wavelength range to be contained in anoverall wavelength range 350 nm≦λ≦1500 nm.
 23. The method of claim 1,further comprising exposing said body component to said light having anenergy delivery rate r lying in a range 0.0013 Joules/cm²/sec≦r≦0.02Joules/cm²/sec, during at least one of said first time interval and saidsecond time interval.
 24. The method of claim 1, further comprisingexposing said body component to said light having an accumulated energydensity E(accum) lying in a range 2.5 Joules/cm²≦E(accum)≦20 Joules/cm².25. The method of claim 1, further comprising choosing a length Δt(exp)for at least one of said first time interval and said second timeinterval to lie in a range 0.1 sec≦Δt(exp)≦1 sec.
 26. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising providing said body component with a lowfrequency (LF) electromagnetic field having at least one frequency f ina range 1 Hz≦f≦10⁴ Hz.
 27. The method of claim 26, further comprisingincluding at least one of the following frequencies f in said lowfrequency field: 1.7 Hz, 4 Hz, 8 Hz, 80 Hz, 266 Hz and 666 Hz.
 28. Themethod of claim 1, further comprising providing said body component witha magnetic field, oriented in a selected direction and having anintensity B in a range of about 100 Gauss≦B≦10⁴ Gauss.
 29. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising providing said body component with a lowfrequency magnetic field, oriented in a selected direction and having atleast one frequency f in a range of about 1 Hz≦f≦10⁴ Hz.
 30. A systemfor illuminating an animal's body, the system comprising: a lightdelivery module, having at least first and second light deliveryelements for generating and focussing light to intermittently illuminatea selected component of a human's body with light having at least twowavelengths; the first light delivery element being arranged to exposethe body component to light in a first selected range of wavelengths fora first selected exposure time interval to produce at least one freeelectron within or adjacent to the body component; the second lightdelivery element being arranged to expose the body component to light ina second selected range of wavelengths for a second selected exposuretime interval to produce at least one free electron within or adjacentto the body component, where the first and second exposure timeintervals are spaced apart by a dark time interval having a selectedlength Δt(dark) that is at least 0.1 sec, where the at least one freeelectron produced during each of the first and second exposure timeintervals is allowed to come to equilibrium within or adjacent to thebody component.
 31. The system of claim 30, wherein at least one of saidfirst, second, third and fourth wavelength ranges includes at least oneof the following wavelengths: 470 nm, 550 nm, 637 nm, 666 nm, 890 nm and905 nm.
 32. The system of claim 30, wherein said light delivery moduleis provided with a light delivery wrap that is configured to be wrappedaround at least a portion of at least one of the following locations onsaid animal: a toe, a foot, an ankle, a leg, a thigh, a hip, a torso, ashoulder, an arm, an elbow, a forearm, a wrist, a hand, a finger, a neckand a top portion of a head.
 33. The system of claim 32, wherein atleast one of said first and second light delivery elements comprises: anattachment mechanism that attaches said at least one light deliveryelement to a selected region of skin of said animal; and a portablepower supply system, connected to and supplying power for said at leastone light delivery element.
 34. The system of claim 33, wherein saidattachment mechanism is provided as a bandaid having a shape that issubstantially polygonal.
 35. The system of claim 33, further comprising:a second light delivery module and a second attachment mechanism thatattaches said light delivery module to a second selected region of skinof said animal, where the second region is adjacent to said firstregion; wherein the second light delivery module is connected to saidpower supply module so that delivery of electrical power to the secondlight delivery module is integrated with delivery of power to said firstlight delivery module.
 36. The system of claim 35, wherein each of saidfirst attachment mechanism and said second attachment mechanism isprovided as a bandaid having a shape that is substantially polygonal,where said first and second attachment mechanisms can be positioned tobe contiguous along a first selected boundary of said first attachmentmechanism and a second selected boundary of said second attachmentmechanism.
 37. The system of claim 30, further comprising a lightdelivery wrap, including at least one of said first and second lightdelivery elements, that can be positioned adjacent to a lower portion ofa head of said animal.
 38. The system of claim 30, further comprising alight delivery wrap, including at least one of said first and secondlight delivery elements, that can be positioned adjacent to an upperportion of a head of said animal.
 39. The system of claim 30, furthercomprising a light delivery module that fits within said animal's mouthand illuminates a selected portion of an interior of said animal'smouth.
 40. The system of claim 39, wherein at least one of a tooth, agum region adjacent to the tooth and a portion of a roof in saidanimal's mouth is illuminated with said light delivery module.
 41. Thesystem of claim 39, wherein said light delivery module can be deflatedor compressed before insertion into said animal's mouth and said lightdelivery module can be inflated or de-compressed after insertion of saidlight delivery module into said animal's mouth.
 42. The system of claim30, further comprising a light delivery module that fits within a cavityof said animal used for reproduction and illuminates a selected portionof an interior of the cavity of said animal.
 43. The system of claim 42,wherein said light delivery module can be deflated or compressed beforeinsertion into said cavity and said light delivery module can beinflated or de-compressed after insertion into said cavity.
 44. Thesystem of claim 30, wherein said light delivery module attaches to aselected portion of skin of said animal and provides illumination thatinduces a medical healing process in a vicinity of the selected portionof the skin.
 45. The system of claim 44, wherein said selected portionof said skin is chosen adjacent to, or coincident with, an acupuncturemeridian for said animal.
 46. The system of claim 30, wherein saidselected body component is exposed to substantially no light within saidfirst and second selected wavelength ranges and to substantially nolight within said third and fourth selected wavelength ranges, duringsaid dark time interval.
 47. The system of claim 30, wherein at leastone of said first wavelength range, said second wavelength range, saidthird wavelength range and said fourth wavelength range is contained inan overall wavelength range 350 nm≦λ≦1500 nm.
 48. The system of claim30, wherein a length Δt(exp) for at least one of said first timeinterval and said second time interval lies in a range 0.1 sec≦Δt(exp)≦1sec.
 49. The system of claim 30, further comprising an electromagneticfield source that provides said body component with a low frequency (LF)electromagnetic field having at least one frequency f in a range 1Hz≦f≦10⁴ Hz.
 50. The system of claim 49, wherein said at least onefrequency f includes at least one of the following frequencies f in saidlow frequency field: 1.7 Hz, 4 Hz, 8 Hz, 80 Hz, 266 Hz and 666 Hz. 51.The system of claim 30, further comprising a magnetic field source thatprovides said body component with a magnetic field, oriented in aselected direction and having an intensity B in a range of about 100Gauss≦B≦10⁴ Gauss.
 52. The system of claim 30, further comprising amagnetic field source that provides said body component with a lowfrequency magnetic field, oriented in a selected direction and having atleast one frequency f in a range of about 1 Hz≦f≦10⁴ Hz.